Dakota State announces $90M cybersecurity expansion, lab
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Dakota State University on Wednesday announced plans for a $90 million expansion of its cybersecurity program, including the construction of a lab in Sioux Falls.
At an event to announce the program, Gov. Kristi Noem said it would help foster the cybersecurity industry in South Dakota and includes a statewide program to train high school students in programming while also doubling the student size of Dakota State's cybersecurity degree.
The cybersecurity lab, which is slated to open in 2025, represents a major expansion by the public university system into the state's largest city, Sioux Falls, which does not host any of the primary campuses for the state's six universities. Sanford Health is donating land for the campus.
Dakota State University President José-Marie Griffiths described the program as a “complex and future-leaning” project that would foster both educational and business opportunities.
The expansion will be funded by a mix of donations and state funds. Philanthropist T. Denny Sanford is contributing $50 million, while Noem has proposed a $30 million allotment from the state budget. The city of Sioux Falls is also donating $10 million for the lab.
U.S. Sen. Mike Rounds in a statement called the program a “game-changer” for the state.
Gloss